Denver Broncos Training Camp: DeMarcus Walker mixes with first team

DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs is sacked by defensive end DeMarcus Walker #57 of the Denver Broncos during the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on December 31, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. The Chiefs defeated the Broncos 27-24. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
DENVER, CO - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs is sacked by defensive end DeMarcus Walker #57 of the Denver Broncos during the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on December 31, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. The Chiefs defeated the Broncos 27-24. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

Denver Broncos second-year defensive lineman DeMarcus Walker got some work with the first-team defense after a disappointing rookie season…

Denver Broncos training camp is underway and this year’s camp is an opportunity for a number of young players to step up in a big way.

There were numerous issues with the Denver Broncos last season and one, in particular, was DeMarcus Walker playing out of position.

This season, Walker is in ideal shape at around 284 pounds to play on the defensive line and be a key contributor where last year was a struggle.

At the opening day of training camp, Walker saw playing time in team drills with the first team defensive unit.

This is a huge deal for the Broncos, who are potentially getting another key role player. Walker is near his collegiate weight from his Florida State days.

Walker is a relentless pass rusher on the line. One of the reasons Walker appeals to the Broncos currently is the flexibility he offers to play at end or inside.

Early on in day one of Training Camp, the defensive line played with physicality and attitude. A number of throws were knocked down using great timing. If Walker’s presence can create this type of consistency throughout the preseason, it will be a problem for opponents.

Documented previously on Predominantly Orange, Walker is ideal to be that Malik Jackson-type player the Denver Broncos defense once had.

Walker has strong hands and base to maintain his stance when dealing offensive linemen. The ability to rush the quarterback and rack up tackles for loss compares favorably to Jackson’s skill set in Denver.

With question marks of Adam Gotsis’ off-field situation still up in the air, the Broncos will need someone to emerge becoming a second wave threat.

Walker can be that guy.

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